By Mike Oboh
The Nigeria Olympic Commission Athletes Commission has expressed optimism that despite the negative effect of Covid-19 on athletes form, the country’s athletes will show class in Tokyo Olympics, if necessary attention is given to their preparations.
In its communiqué issued and signed by its chairman Olumide Oyedeji and Secretary, Bose Kafo,at the end of the 2-Day seminar and athletes forum organised in Abuja,it warned the athletes to be mindful of issues of dieting and relationships with backroom /support staff as these are essential elements to the doping status of every athletes as well as comply with World Anti-Doping Agency, WADA, International Testing Agency, ITA, and National Anti- Doping Organizations, NADO, Rules.
It called for proper recognition of the Nigeria Athletes Commission and all Athletes Representative of the Nations Federation as well as giving opportunity to have voice and be inclusive in decision making relating to athletes matters.
The athletes were admonished to realistically consider a field of academic study while enjoying the luxury presented at the peak of their careers, this they say would ensure an effective transition to a post- Career lifestyle.
It advocated for the duplication of Athletes Commission in all federations to effectively cover the nooks and crannies of the country and allow tones of voices of athletes heard.
It raised concerns over the lifestyle without discipline of atthletes which most times have destroyed careers that were destined for greatness. Expert advice was offered on compliance with established medical guidelines to prolong careers of Athletes in their chosen sport.
On rule 50, the forum enlisted the contents as stipulated in extant rules of IOC guidelines and encouraged athletes to speak out against all forms of harassment and abuse, social injustice and societal vices without making themselves as agents of political movement. It also called for caution in utterances by athletes through all media of communication.
On relationship with the Media, the forum called for a healthy interaction between media- organizations in the country and athletes whether in local and International tournaments and athletes were advised to see the Media as their friends who they can confide in.
The forum expressed it appreciation to Femi Ayotunde, General Manager, NTA Sports, Femi Johnson, Enefiok Udo-Obong, Dr Dayo Ogunkunle and the rests for their well researched papers, articulated speech, delivery, time and interaction as the Nigeria Athletes Commission bids to take its rightful place in line with the IOC movement and international best practices.
The participants were also appreciated for their involvement in the renewed vision for career development and transition of Nigerian Athletes beyond Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games while wishing the country’s Athletes the very best in the Olympiad
